Westlake, OH Heating: Common Boiler Leaks

Boilers are sturdy heating units that work by sending hot water or steam throughout your Westlake, OH home by means of copper baseboard piping or radiators. They offer comfort and warmth throughout the heating season, and can also heat your hot water, offering a dual functionality. However, the heating process takes its toll on your boiler’s structural integrity as well as the surrounding piping, and you can develop leaks for any number of reasons. Boiler leaks should be handled professionally and speedily by a boiler technician. For Westlake, OH boiler leak repair, call Westland Heating and Air Conditioning today!

Here are some common reasons for boiler leaks:

Loose-fitting connections. As with any pressurized system, your boiler plumbing needs to be tightly connected at all times. While professional installation is one way to ensure that your boiler reduces the risk of leaking, the expansion and contract of your boiler under thermal stress can cause connection problems in the surrounding pipe, fitting, or valve.

Thermal stress crack. When metal is heated, it expands and contracts. Your boiler is built to endure this process constantly during the heating season, over time, it may begin to show various evidence of thermal stress and strain, including cracks. Depending on the age of your boiler, a crack may be a good indication that it’s time for replacement.

Pressure. With all that pressure building up inside, your boiler has to have some kind of release. The pressure outlet pipe attached to your boiler allows excess water to drip outside of the boiler. This is a controlled “leak,” and shouldn’t be mistaken for an accident. However, if there is an excessive amount of water coming out, then it may be an indication of excessive pressure in the tank itself.

Faulty seal. Because your boiler isn’t made from a solid piece of metal, proper construction mandates the use of seals to ensure that connections between components are tight, and that they do not leak. When seals get old or damaged, your boiler can begin to push water through them.